XYX Lab - Monash University

PhD Scholarship for
Designing Dignity: Civic equity through public bathroom architecture

This scholarship is set within the ARC Discovery Project “Designing Dignity: Civic equity through public bathroom architecture” funded by the Australian Research Council Discovery Project awarded to Professor Nicole Kalms and Professor Emily Potter (2026-2028).

The project will undertake new research to analyse the value of public bathroom architecture using place-based methods to reimagine these modestly-scaled buildings as outward demonstrations of civic innovation and inclusion for future Australian communities. This innovative approach will shift the current focus on public bathroom design from a pragmatic, minimalist view of technical and ergonomic specifications to an ambitious, multipurpose concept – where a responsive network is shaped by the complexities of rapid urban change, population growth, housing stress and social insecurity.

The PhD student will be located in XYX Lab at Monash University, Australia’s most innovative research group dedicated to inclusive urban design. Located in the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, they will work with Professor Kalms and a Post Doctoral Research Associate.

The XYX Lab, co-directed by is a team of interdisciplinary design researchers exploring gender-sensitive design practices and theory. XYX Lab research brings together planners, policy makers, local government and stakeholders to make tangible the experiences of underrepresented communities in urban space and planning.

Please see the instructions -- this position has a two-stage selection process.
Please share with your networks.

EoI closes: Wednesday 8 April 2026, 11:55pm AEST

LINK in BIO

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PhD candidate and spatial designer in the XYX Lab, Isabella Webb, shares how her research on gender-sensitive urban design takes on new significance with this year’s International Women’s Day 2025 theme, ‘March Forward: Taking Bold Steps to Turn Commitments into Action.’

“My research is about addressing the mobility gaps and the feelings of isolation experienced by women in these areas. These spaces, between urban and rural, are often neglected when it comes to infrastructure and community-building efforts,” says Isabella

“International Women’s Day reminds us that gender equality is not a one-off event but an ongoing effort. Structural change is needed from the top down—government, urban planners, and designers need to commit to creating spaces that support women’s mobility, safety, and opportunities,” says Isabella.

By highlighting the real experiences of women, her research seeks to influence urban planning and policymaking that truly benefits women and marginalised groups.

Read the full article via the link in our bio.

The YourGround NSW Baseline Insights Report is now available, offering valuable insights into how women and gender diverse people experience public spaces across New South Wales. Developed by CrowdSpot and Monash University’s XYX Lab, this report maps out areas of safety and discomfort to drive improvements in public safety and inclusivity.

The YourGround NSW Baseline Insights Report is now available, offering valuable insights into how women and gender-diverse people experience public spaces across New South Wales. Developed by CrowdSpot and Monash University’s XYX Lab, this report maps out areas of safety and discomfort to drive improvements in public safety and inclusivity.

This report is an essential resource for Dr Hannah Tonkin, NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner, complementing her Strategic Plan, which was launched in March 2024.

Access the full report here - https://ow.ly/KMo050T1Ji9

Monash Art, Design and Architecture